61020 Remove brain cavity fluid
Also known as: ventricular puncture, ventricular tap, ventriculocentesis
Percutaneous puncture of the brain ventricles for aspiration or removal of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes.
Clinical Context
Performed for diagnosis of ventriculitis, management of hydrocephalus, therapeutic CSF drainage, or administration of intrathecal medications. Emergency procedure for acute hydrocephalus with neurologic compromise.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 1.47 |
| Practice Expense RVU | 0.97 |
| Malpractice RVU | 0.51 |
| Total RVU | 2.95 |
Est. Medicare Payment
National estimate based on 2026 CMS PFS Conversion Factor ($33.40). Actual payment varies by locality (GPCI adjustment).
Specialties
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CPT® is a registered trademark of the American Medical Association. Data sourced from CMS Physician Fee Schedule RVU26A. Descriptions, synonyms, and clinical context are original content by RVU Edge.